Student insight on the value of performing medication histories independently in a live outpatient setting

ObjectiveThe purpose of the study was to gather insight on how P4 students perceive the benefits of a medication history-taking activity.DesignStudents were required to complete chart reviews, reconcile medications, and identify drug-related problems prior to performing live medication histories with patients. Following completion of this assignment, students were asked to write a reflection about the overall process, what they learned, and what surprises they experienced. Reflections were analyzed using a basic qualitative approach.AssessmentA total of 24 reflection essays were analyzed. Five themes emerged. The activity increased student confidence, taught the meaning of interprofessional work, raised awareness of pharmacist impact, improved understanding of individualized care, and helped recognize that foundational knowledge is necessary to function in practice.ConclusionsPerforming live medication histories helped students refine skills necessary to function as a pharmacist and fostered the evolution of their views and attitudes of the pharmacy profession.